Emergency Vet Visits During the Holidays: What Pet Owners Need to Know

The holiday season is a magical time for families across South East Calgary, including our beloved pets. However, it also brings an increased risk of unexpected veterinary emergencies. At Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic, we want Calgary pet owners to enjoy a safe festive season by being prepared, informed, and proactive.

Why Are Veterinary Emergencies More Common During the Holidays?

December is packed with celebrations, gatherings, decorations, and indulgent treats—all wonderful for humans, but sometimes hazardous for pets. Every year, our clinic in Auburn Bay sees a spike in emergency vet visits due to accidental ingestion, holiday stress, and seasonal hazards unique to Calgary’s winter.

Common Holiday Hazards for Calgary Pets

Understanding what puts pets at risk can help you prevent emergencies before they happen. Key hazards include:

Toxic Holiday Foods: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol, and xylitol-sweetened treats can be life-threatening to dogs and cats.

Seasonal Decorations: Tinsel, ornaments, and electrical cords can cause intestinal blockages or electrocution if chewed.

Holiday Plants: Poinsettias, lilies, holly, and mistletoe are toxic if ingested by pets.

Cold Weather Dangers: Calgary’s dropping temperatures mean ice, antifreeze spills (which is highly toxic), and salt-treated sidewalks can harm paws and health.

How Do I Know If My Pet Needs Emergency Vet Care?

Some symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. If your pet displays any of the following, contact Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic or your nearest 24-hour vet in South East Calgary right away:

- Continuous vomiting or diarrhea

- Difficulty breathing or choking

- Seizures or collapse

- Ingestion of toxic foods, plants, or foreign objects

- Sudden lameness, pain, or inability to move

- Severe bleeding or visible wounds

- Significant changes in behaviour (confusion, weakness, unresponsiveness)

Tips to Prevent Emergency Vet Visits This December

Protecting your pet during the holiday chaos is possible with a few simple precautions. Here’s how South East Calgary pet owners can keep furry family members safe:

Decorate mindfully:

- Place ornaments and electrical cords out of reach

- Avoid toxic plants or use pet-safe alternatives

Monitor food and treats:

- Remind guests not to give pets table scraps

- Store treats and human food securely

Manage stress:

- Create a quiet, comfortable space for your pet away from crowds and noise

- Keep routines consistent with regular walks, meals, and downtime

Protect against cold and ice:

- Limit time outdoors in extreme cold

- Clean paws after walks to remove ice-melt chemicals

- Ensure pets have adequate warmth indoors

Be Prepared for a Pet Emergency

Despite your best efforts, accidents can happen. Prepare in advance by:

- Knowing the location and contact information for Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic and the nearest 24/7 emergency vet hospital in South East Calgary

- Keeping your pet’s medical records and medications accessible

- Having a pet first-aid kit ready

- Saving the number for the Animal Poison Control Center

Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic: Here for Calgary Pets This Holiday Season

At Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to the health and happiness of your pets all year round. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Sandeep Mangat and Dr. Anmol Mangat, offers compassionate, personalized urgent care—whether your pet needs immediate attention, surgery, or comprehensive diagnostic services.

If you’re ever unsure about your pet’s symptoms or need urgent advice, don’t hesitate to contact us. Emergencies don’t keep regular hours, and neither do we—our South East Calgary clinic is always ready to help local families when they need us most.

Wishing You and Your Pets a Safe and Healthy Holiday

As Calgary’s winter and festive season get underway, Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic encourages pet owners to stay vigilant, prepared, and proactive. Your pets rely on you for their safety—let us be your trusted partners in care. For urgent veterinary services, preventative check-ups, or health advice this December, reach out to Auburn Bay Veterinary Clinic—we’re here for you and your companions whenever you need us.

Contact us today to book a wellness exam, learn more about our services, or for immediate emergency support. From our family to yours, have a joyful and safe holiday season!